Internship Spotlight II {Fall 2017}

Dagoberto Acevedo, Bluefield College

Dagoberto (right) with a fellow intern at the Active Minds National Conference.

I am interning at Active Minds, a non-profit organization that advocates for mental health awareness. I work in Speakers Bureau Department, where I assist with different outreach programs, construct a variety of visuals used by the organization, aid with any logistical work that is needed, and much more. The office environment is encouraging and welcoming, with many opportunities for the interns to interact with other department heads as well as with each other. At my internship, I have been able to further enhance my professional skills while also gaining new ones. Besides the day-to-day office work, I have been able to represent Active Minds in Congressional briefings that revolve around mental health, participate in professional development workshops, write blogs for the website, and attend the Active Minds National Conference. I feel honored to have been given this experience, as it has pushed me to grow both professionally and spiritually. I️ have gained more appreciation for speaking for those who are too afraid to speak for themselves.

Teague Broquard, John Brown University

Teague takes in a spectacular view of the city from the top of the U.S. Capitol dome.

During my semester at ASP, I have had the pleasure of interning for my U.S. Representative, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3). As an intern on Capitol Hill, my duties vary from answering phone calls, leading Capitol tours, attending hearings and briefings, to decorating our office Christmas tree for the holiday season. I think the greatest lesson I’ve learned over the semester is the importance of listening well. When the Chief of Staff is giving me directions for a project, I need to be listening and be thinking of clarifying questions if necessary. This also carries over into answering phone calls. I’ve realized that many people just want to be heard, and when you can be that person that truly listens to their concerns, they are so thankful and you feel accomplished. I think my favorite memory from this internship was when I was able to join a VIP tour group to the top of the U.S. Capitol dome. The view was astounding and I could even see the Dellenback Center! I would encourage all future ASP students to definitely consider an internship on the Hill. It is rewarding, prestigious, and excellent training for your future professional life.

Matt Logan, John Brown University

Matt in the hearing room of the House Armed Services Committee.

I have the privilege of interning with the House Armed Services Committee (HASC). At HASC, I have primarily been tasked with conducting research pertaining to national defense and military policy. At times, I have been able to utilize the Library of Congress and have even had my findings used in committee meetings regarding the National Defense Authorization Act. I have also helped with hearings and briefings featuring high-ranking officials, including Secretary of Defense Mattis and King Abdullah II of Jordan. During my time with the committee, I have gained a truly unique understanding of foreign affairs, the purpose of government, and overall defense policy.

Prior to my internship, I was concerned that the polarization featured in the media would be prevalent here. I could not be more mistaken. HASC prides itself on its bipartisanship and willingness to cooperate across-the-aisle. This has been evident during my time this semester and has encouraged me to pursue good relations with everyone, even those with whom I disagree. For anyone that wants to get an inside look at Congress while working to promote national security, I would highly recommend an internship at HASC.

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